Frequently Asked Questions

Our Navigating Domestic Adoption course walks you through every stage of the domestic newborn adoption process from initial preparation to finalization and beyond. Topics include:

• How domestic adoption works

• Deciding if domestic adoption is right for your family

• The different types of adoption

• Adoption professionals and their roles

• The home study process and requirements

• Financial considerations and allowable expenses

• Legal aspects and responsibilities

• The hospital experience and birth

• Finalization and post-placement

The course contains 20 lessons organized into 6 modules. Each lesson features an overview video for quick, high-level learning and a downloadable lesson guides for in-depth exploration. Each lesson guide contains comprehensive information on the lesson topic, key points, informational graphics, a self-assessment, a glossary of key terms, and a dedicated page for your own notes.

Yes. Adoption Academy is completely independent and does not promote any specific agency, attorney, or adoption professional. Our goal is to provide complete, objective information.

The total course length varies depending on your pace. Most people complete it within a few weeks, but you can move faster or slower based on your schedule, preferred learning style, and comfort level.

Yes. The course is completely self-paced, so you can learn whenever it works best for you. There are no time limits or gate-kept information, which means you’ll always have full and unlimited access to all the course materials.

You’ll have permanent access with no expiration, so you can return to the materials anytime.

Yes. The course is completely mobile-friendly and works on any device with internet access.

Yes. You’re welcome to share access with your partner or spouse so you can go through the course together.

Yes. The course covers the overall domestic adoption process. Because laws and processes vary by state, we highlight where differences may occur so you know when to seek state-specific guidance.

Yes. You’ll receive a certificate of completion once you finish the course.

No, Adoption Academy is not an accredited school or degree-granting institution. We are an independent resource created to provide prospective adoptive parents with clear, unbiased information about the domestic adoption process. The course is designed for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional, legal, or academic training.

No. Adoption Academy is entirely independent. We are not connected to any agency, attorney, or adoption professional. We created this course to provide prospective adoptive parents with a clear, unbiased, and accessible source of information about domestic adoption.

Adoption Academy was founded by a team with more than 15 years of direct, hands-on experience in the world of U.S. domestic adoption. We created this course to provide clear, unbiased, and accessible information to anyone considering adoption. Learn more about us and our mission. 

Agency training focuses on the requirements and process of one specific agency. It can also reflect that agency’s own perspectives, practices, or affiliations, which may not represent the full range of options available to you. Our course provides a broader, unbiased overview of the entire domestic adoption process so you can make informed decisions with the complete picture in mind.

Yes. Many families take the course while working with an agency or other adoption professional. It gives you independent knowledge to help you ask the right questions, understand all your options, and feel more confident in the process.

Taking the course first gives you a complete and unbiased foundation. With that knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to compare agencies, understand what they offer, and choose the one that best fits your needs.

No. Adoption Academy is not an adoption agency. We provide education only. Our course will not match you with an expectant mother or place a child with you. Only licensed adoption agencies and attorneys can provide child placement services.

No. We provide general education about the adoption process and the legal aspects of adoption, but we do not give legal counsel. Always consult an adoption attorney for legal advice.

The course is a one-time payment of $249.

No. At this time we only offer a single-payment option.

Yes. The course is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t feel more prepared after enrolling, we’ll refund your purchase in full.

The course is designed as a self-guided resource. If you have questions about your specific circumstances, we recommend reaching out directly to the adoption professional you’re working with, or to a licensed adoption professional in your area.